The Minnesota Building was erected by private donations by the citizens of Minnesota. Unlike other buildings, it was constructed entirely of pine logs, all shipped in from Minnesota. It had two balconies, each 20 feet wide, and the finished building was 70x60 feet and stood two stories high. The building also contained peaks and gables and wide verandas

Many important residents of Minnesota came on two special trains to view the building. Governor Clough and his staff as well as members of the Minnesota Commission, attended the dedication exercise on July 20, 1898. A public reception was held afterward in the parlors of the Minnesota Building.